Zenith Bank Plc has taken another major step in its international expansion with the official opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Newsonspot reports that the newly inaugurated branch strengthens the bank’s global presence and complements its existing operations in London. This move is aimed at enhancing corporate banking, trade finance, and treasury services, while deepening financial connections between Africa and the UK.
Speaking at the high-profile event attended by dignitaries from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dame Adaora Umeoji, praised the visionary leadership of the bank’s founder, Dr. Jim Ovia. She highlighted that Zenith Bank’s success is built on a strong foundation of “People, Technology, and Service,” which has positioned it as one of the leading financial institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
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Umeoji further emphasized that the bank offers a wide range of financial solutions, including corporate banking, trade finance services such as Letters of Credit and bills for collection, as well as SME support through its dedicated platforms. She added that Zenith Bank continues to deliver cutting-edge digital banking services, foreign exchange solutions via domiciliary accounts, and seamless international banking services through its global network.
Also speaking, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, described the development as a reflection of the remarkable growth of Nigeria’s banking sector.
He noted that Nigerian banks have evolved into globally competitive institutions with strong capital bases, advanced technology, and an expanding international outlook. According to him, the launch of Zenith Bank’s Manchester branch signals the sector’s readiness to facilitate both domestic and global investments.
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Tinubu commended the contributions of Jim Ovia, Adaora Umeoji, and other stakeholders, describing the new branch as more than just a physical expansion. He said it represents a strong vote of confidence in the UK market, Nigeria-UK relations, and the future of African financial institutions on the global stage.
